French gov't unveils a plan to promote better dialogue with Muslims and training of imams

PARIS – French Interior minister Bernard Cazeneuve has proposed a plan aiming at promoting a better dialogue with France's Muslim community, that notably includes training of imams at university.

The plan would promote an Islam "faithful to the values of the Republic," Cazeneuve said Wednesday, insisting on France's tradition of secularism. He says the creation of a new representative body would help Muslim leaders and French authorities to address issues such as security, prevention of radicalization and preventing anti-Muslims acts.

The training at university would be mandatory for Muslim chaplains who work in prisons.

The plan comes amid increasing religious tension in France after attacks by Islamic extremists against a kosher market and satirical newspaper in January.